Everything You Need To Know About IVF

IVF or In Vitro Fertilization is a process of extracting the egg or the ova from the mother, sperm from the father and combining them manually in a laboratory dish. The embryos then formed are transformed to the uterus and are allowed to naturally implant on the wall of the womb.

Infertility is not uncommon and one can observe a growth in the number of cases where couples opt for IVF. There are various factors that can affect fertility – Lifestyle, drinking or smoking habits or any other genetic issues. There are also cases wherein fertile couples go for In vitro fertilization for other reasons.

Here are a few things that you ought to know about IVF:

1. Conventional IVF takes time

The conventional method of IVF requires great patience and perseverance. This process may take up to 4-5 weeks to be completed. Results, however, may or may not be seen.

2. Different types of IVF

Depending on the country that you live in and the doctor that you are consulting, you may get to see a lot of different options in IVF. Ranging from a couple of days to a couple of weeks, IVFs are classified depending upon the dosage of the drug and the time that is taken for the mother to conceive.

3. The Cost Factor

If you have deep pockets, you need not worry about the cost. However, it is essential to ask for a cost breakdown chart from your doctor so as to get a fair idea of what you are up for. Since IVFs are tailor made for every patient, there might be some extra treatments that you might have to do. Make sure that you are financially ready for the same and do not have to stop the treatment because of monetary issues.

4. Age Factor

In women, fertility begins to decline at the age of 35 and by the age of 45, there are comparatively lower chances of an IVF working out in your favor. In men, fertility remains relatively stable although it does decrease with age. Meaning, with age, there is a gradual decrease in the number of sperms produced.

5. More than one cycle of treatment

As mentioned earlier, one IVF process takes a maximum of about 4-5 weeks. This being said, you may not get results on the very first try. Therefore, you may require more than one cycle of treatment to successfully conceive.

6. Twins or Triplets?

To be on a safer side doctors transfer about 5-7 embryos in the mother’s womb, so as to increase chances of implantation. This can lead to multiple implantations and you might have to get ready to welcome twins or triplets, at times.

7. Proper Consultation

Before opting for IVF, the couple must thoroughly consult their doctor to find out whether or not IVF is a good option for them. After a few tests and reports, the doctor can give you an exact picture of your condition and recommend ways in which you could have a baby.

8. Other ways

If IVF does not work out for you, it is completely fine. Remember, that there are other options for having a child such as – Adoption, Surrogacy, etc. Do not be disheartened and always listen to your doctor for the best advice.